Volo's Burnell Russell, Lindhurst's Susan Lahr say they won't seek re-election in April

Two incumbent Lake County village presidents said Monday they won't seek re-election in 2015.

Lindenhurst's Susan Lahr said she won't run for a third term because she believes in term limits. Burnell Russell, the only village president Volo has had since its incorporation in 1993, said it's time for a change.

"To put it simply, I've been mayor for 22 years. I'm 86 years old, and I'm tired," Russell said. "I believe there comes a time when you should step down and move on."

However, Russell said he's not planning to leave completely - he said he wants to run for village board trustee in the April 7 consolidated election. Village officials said Russell has taken out nominating petitions to run for trustee.

Trustee Stephen Henley has filed petitions to run for Volo village president, village officials said. It's unknown if he will face a challenger. Filing closes at 5 p.m. Dec. 22.

Russell said he was hopeful last year he would return for one more term after having knee replacement surgery in 2012. However, he said, age is catching up to him.

"My mind wants to do it, but my body just can't keep up," he said. "Volo has come a long way in the last 22 years. I'm very proud of what we have become."

In Lindenhurst, Trustee Dominic Marturano has filed nominating petitions to run for village president to replace Lahr, village officials said.

"I feel Lindenhurst is in an excellent position financially, and the board and I have focused on a number of significant projects that will benefit residents in the future," Lahr said. "The trustees and village staff have been excellent resources and partners throughout my tenure."

Lahr served on the Millburn Elementary District 24 school board for six years before becoming the village's mayor.

"I love community service, and most likely will continue doing that, just in a different capacity," she said.